Northallerton InFocus Winter 2017

Northallerton

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Quarterly Royal Mail distribution: 14,900 homes & businesses www.jkanorth.com/northallerton | Winter 2017

InFocus

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For advertising contact Christine: 01609 777401 or Dwight: 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com

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inside Northallerton infocus

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Christmas around the Market Towns

We look at Christmas activities and celebrations across Northallerton, Thirsk and Masham

A Dales trip out

Leeming Garth residents enjoy a trip up the Dales

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06 new businesses 08 local news: 10 competition: 16 local news: 18

local news: FEATURED

Carers Discount Card launched 2 pages of New businesses & services FEATURED

Residents enjoy trip out

FEATURED

Win tickets to Snow White FEATURED

Christmas around the Market towns

Your chance to win!

Win tickets to see the star studded Snow White production

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20 local news: 22 garden 24 travel: 27 30 infocus education

Christmas Quiz FEATURED

Rural Arts Winter schedule National Tree Week FEATURED

Winter Travel Tips Advertising Details & Index

Welcome to the Winter issue

We welcome Winter, Christmas and all that they bring with a wide selection of local news and updates, from Christmas events on p18, to another chance to win Panto tickets on p16 (Oh yes there is!) Try our fun Christmas quiz on p20, no cheating!

Don’t forget, if you have any news, events, updates or stories of local interest, please send them to editorial@jkanorth.com and we’ll do our best to publish them for you.

T: 01609 777401 T: 01609 779097 www.jkanorth.com

I hope you all enjoy this issue and I’ll see you again in Spring.

Best wishes,

Christine Campbell | Editor InFocus Magazines are published in good faith and the editors cannot be held responsible in any way for inaccuracies in reports or advertising in reports or advertising that appear in this publication and the views of the contributors may not be the those of the editors. Adverts and advertisers appearing in the InFocus Magazines carry no implied recommendation from the magazine or the publishers. All rights reserved. All information is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of going to press. InFocus Magazines cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. infocus

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New Carer Discount Card for Hambleton & Richmondshire

Hambleton and Richmondshire Carers Centre (H&RCC) is a local charitable organisation providing free information and support to people who are caring for a friend or relative. The charity supports people who care, full-time or part-time and are of all ages from 8 years upward.

In June, together with the support of a number of local businesses, the Carers Centre was able to launch a Carer Discount Card scheme. Carers who receive support from H&RCC, or who can provide other evidence of their caring role, can now apply for a free discount card. Once carers receive their photo ID card they are eligible for a range of discounted services, from hospital bus journeys to legal advice and from cafes to wellbeing therapies. A directory, detailing where the card can be used and the discount being offered, is posted out along with the card.

Why a Discount Card?

Very often caring has an impact on financial circumstances; such as higher utility bills, higher transport costs or increased cleaning costs. At the same time, many working age carers give up work, or reduce their working hours, in order to provide care for a loved one. Consequently, Hambleton and Richmondshire Carers Centre introduced their Carer Discount Card to help alleviate some of the financial strain that caring can cause.

If you are 18 or older and support a relative or friend you could be eligible to apply for a Carer Discount Card. If you would like more information please contact Fiona on: 01609 780872, or email: Fiona. kaley@hrcarers.org.uk Hambleton and Richmondshire Carers Centre is also currently looking to expand the scheme, so if you run a business and would like to know more about how you could contribute to the scheme (terms and conditions are set by each individual business), please contact: Fiona. kaley@hrcarers.org.uk or Tel: 01609 780872.

Registered Number:1092023

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Charity

Please mention InFocus when contacting any of our advertisers

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new businesses & services

in & around our area

“New To The Area” is a new business feature specifically designed to help new businesses and those that are offering new businesses and services to promote themselves cost effectively.

they will receive the equivalent space in complimentary editorial*. This editorial provides excellent business exposure to 14,900 homes and businesses and allows further explanation of the new business or services available.

Businesses are invited to submit their adverts to this feature at the regular price (Advert sizes available: 1/8 and ¼) and

* Editorial must be supplied completed.

Evolve NCA Gym:

beginners to those who’ve been training for years. Evolve welcomes anyone over 16 and currently has members ranging from 16 – 75 years old.

Evolve is Northallerton’s newest, independently owned fitness facility which opened in April 2017.

What can Evolve offer?

• We cater for all fitness levels • We offer help with balance, coordination, and flexibility • We create individually tailored programmes • We offer 4 free one to one sessions with all full memberships taken out • We are always on hand to provide support and encouragement

Lucy’s aim is to create a training environment that everyone feels comfortable in – from absolute

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Popular local drama group, the Allerton Players present A Bolt from the Blue, an electrifying comedy by David Tristram.

Thursday 9th November: 19:30 Friday 10th November: 19:30 Saturday 11th November: 19:30

Goodbye (PG)

Christopher

Robin

Saturday 11th November: 12:00 Sunday 12th November: 14:30 Sunday 12th November: 17:30

The Glass Castle (12A) Saturday 11th November: 14:30 Sunday 12th November: 20:00

Saturday 18th November: 10:30

Breathe (12A) Friday 24th November: 14:30 Sunday 26th November: 20:00

The Lego Ninjago Movie (PG) Saturday 25th November: 10:00 Saturday 25th November: 15:30 Sunday 26th November: 17:30

Olaf Featurette and Frozen (PG) Saturday 25th November: 13:15 Sunday 26th November: 14:00

Limehouse Golem (15) Friday 1st December: 14:30 Sunday 3rd December: 17:30 Sunday 3rd December: 20:00

Friday 17th November: 14:00

01609 777401 / 01609 779097 www.jkanorth.com

The gym is owned by Lucy Currie who has converted her hobby of exercise into a career. Lucy didn’t always have a love of exercise – far from it. Overweight and unhappy she joined a gym for the first time 9 years ago and it took 6 years for her to realise that not only could she see and feel the benefits of exercise but she actually enjoyed it. The enjoyment led her to take an extra step and open her own gym with the hope of encouraging more people into exercise.

A Bolt From The Blue: Theatre

My Little Pony: The Movie (PG)

Contact us to have your business featured:

For Fitness & Fun!

What’s On This Winter?

For more details and many more events visit:

www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

The Forum, Bullamoor Road, Northallerton, DL6 1LP

01609 776230 info@forumnorthallerton.org.uk

If you are interested in joining or have any queries then drop in to the gym or telephone (details below).

Unit 1a Standard Court Standard Way Northallerton DL6 2XH 01609 760393 Email: evolvenca@gmail.com www.evolvenca.co.uk

Please mention InFocus when contacting any of our advertisers

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Leeming Garth Care Home residents enjoyed a special day out touring the Dales on the Wensleydale Steam Railway 8 residents and staff from Leeming Garth Care Home have recently enjoyed a day in the Yorkshire Dales courtesy of the Wensleydale Steam Railway. The Wensleydale Railway is an authentic heritage railway which serves the community in touring the Yorkshire Dales.

Molly Dickinson, Mabel Eckford, Sheila Hinton, Connie Reed, Bob Ford, Pam Steggalls, Ivy Gilbank and Fred Poole thoroughly enjoyed the day supported by staff.

before a stop over at Leyburn which meant that the residents enjoyed a homemade picnic and shopping spree, then on to Redmire before the journey back to Leeming Bar. All Residents stated that they had enjoyed the experience and would love to do it again. This was a first time adventure for Ivy as Ivy had never been on a train before.

Lorna Burn, Leeming Garth Home Manager, said: “You couldn’t keep the smiles from everyone’s faces - it was such a lovely day! Our Wellbeing Coordinator, Sharni, has done a tremendous job for the Residents. Organising trips out like this demonstrates how we strive to provide the kindest care for our Residents.”

Embarking at Leeming Bar and travelling through Bedale and Finghall Lane ...

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First Aid It can take just a few minutes to save someone’s life Your daughter has a nosebleed. Your father chokes on a piece of meat. Your toddler swallows some floor cleaner. Would you know what to do?

First aid is the care given before the emergency services arrive. A blocked airway can kill someone in three to four minutes yet it can take eight to 12 minutes for an ambulance to arrive. Knowing how to open someone’s airway could mean the difference between life and death.

Almost 4000 people per year die because of accidents in their homes and statistically you are far more likely to be called upon to administer first aid to someone you know than to a stranger.

The top ten injuries or accidents in the home are: • Falls • Burns and scalds • Strikes and collisions • Crush injuries • Cuts and abrasions • Bites and stings • Foreign bodies • Puncture wounds e.g. step• Over exertion e.g. moving heavy ping on a child’s toy furniture • Suspected poisoning

The Winter Therapist Hello my name is Cherie Darley I am a qualified Remedial Massage Therapist.I have just returned from the National Association of Massage & Manipulative Therapists AGM meeting.I was reminded of just how many ways Remedial Massage can help to support and aid recovery to so many conditions.

Repetitive strain injuries,Neck and Shoulder complaints,Upper and Lower back problems,Hip and Knee pain and Foot and Ankle injury recovery.

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At Hambleton Remedial Massage Therapy I am able to examine and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions caused by injury, posture and lifestyle problems, as well as helping people live with long term conditions.

I am a local, down-to-earth, Yorkshire lady. Please call me for a friendly, informal chat on 01609 881627 (home) / 07714 762426 (mobile), or email cheriedarley@ icloud.com I work WED. THURS. FRI. (9am to 8.30pm); Beech Cottage, Hornby Village, Northallerton

Lifting the ‘Winter Blues’ Injuries can come at any time of the year but do tend to come in the Winter months as we often misplace our footing on black ice or fall on our knees or put our hands out to stop us falling.

Please bring this voucher with you to receive your Xmas Discount or give as special gift.

Remedial Massage could help to support you and help lessen the impact of those injuries helping to get circulation moving and reduce inflammation.

Assessment and treatment package Usually £39 less 20% =£31 A Winter boost Body Massage Usually £30 less 20% =£24

I have also found Remedial Massage effective at reducing the feelings of the “Winter Blues helping to bring

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about relaxation and feelings of balance and wellbeing.

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Wishing you health and wellbeing this Christmas Cherie

There are many myths and misconceptions about injuries. Here are the most common: • Butter or cream is good for a burn NO, immerse the injured limb in cool water.

• If you can move a limb it’s not broken NO, the only sure way to tell if a limb is broken is to x-ray it.

• Put a bleeding wound under a tap NO, by all means clean the wound if required but water will wash away the body’s own clotting agents so compression with a clean dressing is the best way to staunch the flow.

• Make someone sick if they’ve swallowed poison NO, this can block their airway or, if the substance is corrosive, damage it further.

Most first aid is common sense but learning some simple skills such as chest compressions (CPR) and the Heimlich manoeuvre will increase your confidence if an emergency arises.

There are many organisations which provide short courses, most last just half a day.Your employer might provide training but if not you could enrol the whole family on a course and make an event of it. Even young children will feel empowered to learn new skills and you never know when they might come in useful!

For advertising contact Christine: 01609 777401 or Dwight: 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com

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REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

2017

As the custodians of Remembrance, The Royal British Legion calls on the nation to unite in commemorating Remembrance Sunday at the 2017 Cenotaph Service and Parade in Whitehall on 12 November.

DATE: Sunday 12 November 2017 LOCATION: The Cenotaph, Whitehall, London The Cenotaph Service is organised annually by the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), with The Royal British Legion coordinating the poignant March Past.

year, there’s a maximum of 10,000 places available which will be allocated through relevant veteran associations. If you are an individual wishing to apply for tickets, please contact your relevant association.

For information about attending this event as a spectator please visit the DCMS website.

Remembrance Sunday services are also held throughout the UK in local communities. Please check with your local authorities for details.

Each year, veterans participate in the Cenotaph March Past. This

The Poppy Factory Major George Howson was an engineer. He was a man of great energy and determination. He won the military cross in WWl. He was addicted to strong Turkish cigarettes and bought them 10000 at a time. He was also the founder of The Royal British Legion Poppy factory!

Through the work of Anna Guerin of France and Moina Michael of the USA, both very practical women who took Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae’s famous poem, “In Flanders Fields”, and devised a way of raising vital funds for wartime charities. The British Legion had been set up the year before and the very first French Poppy Appeal – using silk poppies made by widows - had raised £106,000. In 1921 the first British Poppy appeal was held. In the first year the poppies were imported from France and there was huge demand as poppies quickly became the icons of remembrance.

The Major made a connection; Remembrance Day needed poppies and wounded ex-soldiers needed work. In a letter to his parents he spoke of using a £2000 cheque he had been given to set up a factory to, ‘…give the disabled their chance.’ He wrote that he felt the project would probably not be successful but that he ought to attempt it anyway.

He set up The Disabled Society in London with just five injured ex-servicemen, and in spite of his initial lack of optimism, in few years that had grown to 350 men. He set up a sister factory in Edinburgh to supply poppies

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to Scotland, and the London factory moved to larger premises near the Thames in Richmond and was renamed The Poppy Factory.

As time went on the needs of veterans changed. They wanted to work in their own communities, closer to their families and to use the many and varied skills they had acquired during their careers in the armed services, prior to becoming injured.

In 2010, The Poppy Factory began to actively help disabled ex-Service find the work they wanted in the places they wanted to be. It continues to build on its strong historical foundations to provide an employability service that supports hundreds of exService personnel with varying health challenges into meaningful employment with businesses across the country every year.

Moina Michael was an American professor. She wrote a response to McCrae’s poem in 1918 entitled We Shall Keep The Faith. She vowed to always wear a poppy as a symbol of Remembrance for those who served in the war.

She realised the need to provide financial and occupational support for ex-Servicemen after teaching a class of disabled veterans at the University of Georgia, and so she pursued the idea of selling silk poppies to raise funds for them.

By Tracey Anderson

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Another chance to win!

As the first full-scale production to play the redeveloped and renamed Darlington Hippodrome, this year’s spectacular family pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, will star Lee Ryan, Zoe Birkett, Patrick Monahan, Eric Potts and Liam Mellor in the ultimate festive treat for all ages from 9 December 2017.

Starring as the handsome Prince is boyband and television star Lee Ryan.

Since joining the BRIT award-winning boyband Blue in 2001, Lee and his bandmates went on to sell over 14 million records worldwide, releasing five critically acclaimed studio albums and headlined several UK tours. In 2011, to coincide with their tenth year in the music industry, Blue represented the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest with their entry I Can. In 2013 Blue were a featured addition to the ITV2 reality television show The Big Reunion, which culminated in a sold out performance at the Hammersmith Apollo.

Lee is currently starring as Woody Woodward in EastEnders for the BBC.

Out & About n Live Music Afternoons Once a month we employ top musicians who play Electronic Organ/Keyboard to come along and entertain on a Sunday afternoon, the performers are top class entertainers and it is a wonderful afternoon out.

Tickets purchased on the door for £6-50 to include refreshments (Homemade Cakes/Yorkshire Tea & Coffee) Every month a Charity Raffle.

The music is a mixture of styles to include Classical, Big Band, Jazz, Musicals, Standards.

Doors 1-45pm.

Concerts starts 2-30pm.

Our next show is the:

12th November

with David Thomas.

The Christmas Special Concert is on the

3rd December

featuring two performers Tony Stace & Andrew Nix. VENUE: The Catholic Church Hall, 41 Thirsk Road, Northallerton, DL6 1PJ More info: Tony & Louise Tel: 01609 748295 ........................................................

18th November

Pop Idol finalist, West End leading lady and Darlington diva Zoe Birkett will star alongside him as the Wicked Queen. At 16 she auditioned for the first series of Pop Idol for ITV in 2001, finishing fourth in the competition, before continuing to carve out an extensive theatre career with leading roles in Thriller Live, Respect La Diva and as one of the principal vocalists in Priscilla Queen of the Desert at the Palace Theatre. Most recently Zoe understudied and performed the lead role of Rachel Marron in The Bodyguard across the UK, stunning audiences and critics alike with her vocal dexterity and stage presence.

Middlesbrough-raised funny man Patrick Monahan will star as the Wicked Queen’s bumbling Henchman. A frequent star on the comedy club and festival circuits, Patrick regularly tours the UK with his unique blend of audience interaction, animated story-telling and quick wit, which has solidified his reputation as one of the nation’s best-loved comedians. In 2011 Patrick entered the ITV stand-up comedy contest Show Me the Funny, beating off stiff competition to be crowned the winner, which led to the release of his debut DVD Patrick Monahan Live, and appearances on Let’s Dance for Comic Relief and the ITV celebrity diving show Splash!

Best-known for his role as Coronation Street’s eccentric baker Diggory Compton Eric Potts stars as Nurse Nelly.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is at Darlington Hippodrome from Saturday 9 December 2017 to Sunday 14 January 2018. Tickets are available from the Box Office or by calling 01325 405405.

To be in with a chance of winning a Family Ticket (4 tickets, minimum 1 adult) on Sunday 10 December at 2.00pm, simply answer this question correctly and send together with your name, address and telephone number to: Snow White, Northallerton In Focus Competition, Marketing Dept., Darlington Hippodrome, Parkgate, Darlington DL1 1RR. Entries must be received by Friday 30th November, the winner will be contacted by phone.

n Casino Night Sutton under Whitestonecliffe Village Hall, YO7 2PS. Have fun with roulette, blackjack and more including Roulette Raffle. Free fake currency provided Why not dress up for the occasion?. 7pm for 7.30pm start. £20 per person to include delicious canapes, but bring your own drinks.

Tel: 01845 597757 Tickets: Sue Stephenson .suttonunderwhitestonecliffevillagehall. co.uk ........................................................

20th November

n Thirlby Local History Group Thirlby Village Hall,. Thirlby Local History Group - The Lost Village of Lodge in Upper Nidderdale - talk and film show

by Jim Brightman, Solstice Heritage.

7.30pm. £3 includes refreshments.

Tel: 01845 597077 ........................................................

Question: Lee Ryan is a member of which boy band?

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23rd November n Live Music with Thirsky Twos Little 3, 13 Finkle Street, Thirsk, YO7 1DA. . 8pm. free entry.

Tel: 01845 523 782 Email: info@littlethree.co.uk www.littlethree.co.uk ........................................................

26th November

n Husthwaite Village Christmas Market All you want for Christmas at Husthwaite Village Market. With over 30 stalls to browse, our popular quarterly market will help start your festive season shopping!

Decorations, wreaths, gifts and stocking fillers! Candles, arts and crafts, cards, books, jewellery and beauty products.

Even a pair of socks from Husthwaite’s very own Beacon Alpacas!

Order your favourite Christmas bird, meats and salmon from our NEW local producers of free range and organic poultry, rare breed pork and lamb, duck, geese plus a selection of cured and smoked meat and fish. Accompany this with a choice of artisan breads and pastries, oils and sweet treats and of course a bottle of Husthwaite cider.

Everything you need for the festive season!

The Apple Tree Café will be serving up delicious home-made hot and cold food, beverages, mince pies and a little festive cheer!!

Charity number 1013186.

Husthwaite Village Hall YO61 4PY 11.00am – 3.00pm ........................................................

26th November

n Festival Black Tie Tea Dance 2pm - 4.45pm Yorkshire Suite at the back of the Golden Lion Hotel, Northallerton.

With organist Graeme Scarlett. This event is partly funded by the Alverton Dance Club.

Tickets £6 in advance or £8 on the door. Available from John & Joy Ellis: 01609 258421. All proceeds to Cancer Research. ........................................................

Having an event?

Email us your event details to: events@jkanorth.com and we’ll publish it for you. Magazine distribution dates are on p30.

1st - 2nd December

15th December

n Christmas Opening Times Helmsley Walled Garden, Cleveland Way, Helmsley YO62 5AH. Christmas opening times - The Gift shop at the Garden is open both days from 10am till 3pm for the sale of gifts, hand-made Christmas wreaths and our own apple juice. 10am till 3pm. Free. info@helmsleywalledgarden.org.uk www.helmsleywalledgarden.org.uk ........................................................

n Charity Concert Northallerton Woodwind will be presenting their Christmas charity concert on Friday 15th December 2017 in conjunction with singing group AChord. The concert is in Northallerton Town Hall at 7pm in aid of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Tickets are £7 with under 18s free.

Tickets are available by contacting 01609 774158. ........................................................

2nd December

n The North Yorkshire Chorus Christmas Concert 7:30pm on December 2nd 2017 at St Mary’s Church, Thirsk.

The programme will include Coronation Anthems by Handel, Psalmfest by Rutter and Fantasia on Christmas Carols by Vaughan Williams.

Ticket details: tel.01609775964 email: jeanhayward1@gmail.com www.northyorkshirechorus.org.uk ........................................................

8th - 9th December

n Northallerton Musical Theatre Company Presents their annual Christmas show Town Hall, Northallerton: 7.30 pm.

This is a lovely way to start the Christmas festivities. Come along and listen to some lovely Christmas music with readings and comedy as well. You will not be disappointed.

Tickets are £10 (which includes a glass of wine and mincepies) Obtainable on: 01609 770936 maureenwilloughby48@gmail.com ........................................................

13th December

n Christmas Concert Northallerton Silver Band will be holding their Christmas Concert on Wednesday 13th December at 7.30pm in Northallerton Town Hall.

Tickets £7 and are available Greensleeves, Central Arcade Northallerton. Come along and get your Christmas off to a good start! ........................................................

21st - 27th January 2018

n Northallerton Variety Company Present their Fortieth Pantomime!

“Jack and the Beanstalk” The Forum, Northallerton Ticket prices range from £7 to £10 and will be available from The Forum from early December or Telephone 01609 770936 for further details.

This is the Variety Company’s traditional family pantomime with all the old favourites. Come and meet Dame Dotty Dimple and her silly son Simple Simon.

Boo at the Wicked Witch Piccalilli and Rancid the Ratman, laugh at the antics of Snatchet and Scarper but beware the Giant. Buttermilk the cow will help Fairy Sugardust make sure our hero Jack gets up the beanstalk and marries his Princess. ........................................................

16th February 2018

n Modern, Old Time and Sequence Dance Northallerton Town Hall. Commences 7.30pm.

The accordionist for the evening will be Elizabeth Harrison, tickets are £7 and will be available from Greensleeves, Central Arcade Northallerton. There will be a pooled supper. ........................................................

Please note: the editors cannot be held responsible for any changes to events listed.

Please contact event organisers directly.

All events correct at time of going to press.

For advertising contact Christine: 01609 777401 or Dwight: 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com

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Christmas around the Market Towns Northallerton Santa Sunday

- Sunday 3rd SDecember This year Santa Sunday will be different to every other year since the event has started as Santa will be entering the high street on a Christmas sleigh led by reindeers. Santa will arrive at approx. 3pm on the Sunday on his sleigh! The usual open top bus will be following with children from different primary schools alongside Chercade Wintersgill the winner of Northallerton Town Council’s Christmas illumination design last year, she will finally see her design in lights come to life on the Town Hall Building. Santa will arrive only when the Vasstech Elf run is finished, after this being such a success last year it has returned and we’re hoping for an even better turn out of little elves.

Northallerton Silver band will be performing an array of Christmas carols in the Upper Hall, Town Hall, mince pies and teas/coffees will be on hand to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.

Country Markets will be in the lower hall laden with lots of Christmas goodies throughout the day and there will be an array of stalls and fairground rides down the high street ready to welcome Santa and the keen shoppers.

Panto stars from this year’s Christmas panto will be present in costume gearing the crowd up and switching this year’s Christmas lights on. And for the first time in years there will be a steam train riding up and down the high street for people to enjoy! And throughout all this Minster FM will be playing live Christmas songs from their radio station filling the town.

Elf run entries are now open and forms are available from the Town Hall offices. £3 entry fee.

Thirsk

Thirsk Christmas Fayre - 24th - 26th November 2017 Friday 24th Nov – 4pm to 7:30pm Saturday 25th Nov – 10am to 4pm Sunday 26th Nov – 10am to 4pm

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Together with local business, voluntary groups and like minded residents we are bringing the magic of Christmas to Thirsk for a weekend celebration of all things Yorkshire and all things Christmas! Alongside our usual Saturday Market crammed full of local suppliers, there will be food and gift stalls in the Town Hall adjacent to the Ritz Cinema.

Throughout both days the spirit of Christmas will be there touching all your senses with a real “Christmassy feel” Smell and taste the atmosphere by ambling through the stalls in our Indoor Fayre at the Town Hall on Friday evening and all day Saturday and Sunday. Visit the shops in the town for special offers and discounts and some of them will even have mulled wine and mince pies on offer!

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www.christmasinthirsk.com

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Masham

Christmas Fair Saturday 9th December Masham Town Hall, Little Market Place, Masham From: 10am Crafts and Gift Ideas * Santa’s Grotto * Stalls and Activities * Seasonal Delights Yummy refreshments Plus all day: Big Market in Market Square Hot Food – Handbells – Carol Singers – Live Music Christmas trees for sale Throughout Masham Market Place and the Town Hall

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The Cotswold Link’s

Annual Family Christmas Quiz Relax and chill out, these questions are for the young and not so young. You may not even agree with some of the answers but the quiz is for of the family to take part and enjoy.

1 You receive 10 Christmas Cards from places in Europe; each one wishes you a “Merry Christmas” – Identify where the cards comes from. a) joyeux Noël b) buon Natale c) Feliz Navidad d) Nadolig Llawen e) καλά Χριστούγεννα f) Wesołych Świąt g) Fröhliche Weihnachten h) feliz Natal i) vrolijk kerstfeest j) felicem natalem Christi 2 Match the quotes with the following sources: Anonymous, The Bible, Robert Burns, Winston Churchill, Charles Dickens, David Lloyd George, Albert Einstein, Abraham Lincoln, Picasso, William Shakespeare a) “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat” b) “You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time……” c) “What is our task? To make Britain a fit country for heroes to live in” d) “God is no respecter of persons” e) “Oh my Luve is like a red red rose …” f) “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day ……” g) “My mother said to me, “If you are a soldier you will become a general. If you are a monk you will become the Pope.” Instead, I was an ……… and became ………..” h) “There’s a genius in all of us” i) “When you fall, I will be there to catch you – With Love, the floor” j) It was the best of times, it was the worse of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness ……..”

Now is the time to start your Christmas preparations in earnest Tell everyone their Christmas cards must have been lost in the post, and don’t even think about hunting for presents until the day before the event. By that time the shops are practically empty and there are plenty of bargains to be had.

It’s pointless getting worried in advance, much better to relax and commence preparations of a different kind. Your body and mind require careful maintenance in order to be happy and healthy this Christmas.

1. Worried about fitting into last year’s glitzy outfit? Reduce your wheat intake. Many people find they

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retain water when eating wheat and lose it once they replace bread, pasta, pizza, cakes, biscuits and mince pies with healthier options such as slices of banana-nutbread with whipped coconut cream.

2. While you are at it, you might as well ditch the sugar as well. Once eaten, sugar undergoes a strange metamorphosis into a wobbly substance located around hips and thighs. Sugar also undermines your immune system, making you more prone to flu bugs during the festive season at a time when you want to look and feel your best. Substitute with a little honey, fruit, xylitol or stevia.

3 What date is St. Stephen’s Day? 4 In Charles Dicken’s Christmas Carol, who was Scrooge’s dead

business partner?

5 In the song “12 days of Christmas” …. My true love brought to me….?

6 What colour are the berries of the mistletoe plant?

7 Who wrote “Auld Lang Syne”?

8 How many points does a snowflake have?

9 In which country were Christmas trees fist used to decorate homes?

10 During the First World War on which Christmas Day did the soldiers of Great Britain and Germany stop fighting and greet each other?

11 There are two Christmas Islands and they are located in which oceans?

12 What did Captain James Cook discover on Christmas Day 1777?

13 Which famous scientist born on Christmas Day is buried in Westminster Abbey?

14 The North Pole is said to be Santa’s home. In which Ocean is the North Pole located?

15 What is the chemical formula of snow?

16 What British spacecraft was lost on Mars Christmas Day 2003?

17 Who banned Christmas Day in Britain?

18 Who was the first British monarch to broadcast a Christmas message to the nation?

19 In what year did the Queen deliver her first televised Christmas message to the nation?

20 “So this is Christmas” are the first words of which John Lennon song?

I wish all Cotswold Link Readers A Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year John Harris (Answers on p30)

3. Be philosophical and accept the inevitable. Yes, you may well put on a few pounds over Christmas, but you can minimise the damage by eating the obligatory five pieces of fruit and vegetables per day – then there’s less room for unhealthy habits!

4. Try an apple fast once a week (unless you have severe blood sugar problems). For one entire day, eat as many apples as you please and drink plenty of clean water. Apart from looking svelte, this regime gives you a good internal clean-out before the banqueting begins.

5. Go to the gym or walk a few extra miles three times a week to kickstart your metabolism. This way, you’ll

still be burning off the calories after Boxing Day. 6. Central heating is cosy, but to prevent dehydration, please keep your internal water supply topped up. External water therapy is useful, too, for lymphatic drainage . No matter if you can’t face the annual Christmas Day swim in the sea, just find a jacuzzi and jump in.

7. Stressed out by the mere thought of ‘challenging’ moments with your in-laws? This year, make yourself popular by buying “healthy” gifts.

How about an organic box scheme, or gift-vouchers from a health clinic to try out a range of complementary therapies?

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Winter at Rural Arts Book places online at www.ruralarts.org or call 01845 526536 Rural Arts, The Courthouse, Westgate, Thirsk, YO7 1QS The Courthouse Café and Gallery are open Monday to Saturday 10am - 4.30pm

A Taste of Art Workshops

Learn something new every Wednesday 10.30am-12 noon with our great range of introductory art workshops.

Wire Beaded Ornaments and Cards Wednesday 22nd November: £17 Put together ornaments that can be used as Christmas tree decorations, hanging ornaments or incorporated into Christmas cards.

Handmade Personalised Crackers

Wednesday 6th December: £15 Bring novelty gifts and notes to incorporate into personalised crackers for your friends and family.

Christmas Foliage Wreaths

Wednesday 13th December (2 sessions) £15, (2nd session at 1.30 to 3pm) Using Foliage and metal wreath rings, you will put together your own personalised wreaths for your doors this Christmas!

some loved ones, using a selection of decorative papers.

Art Club

Are you aged 5–8, and interested in arts activities? Join our Art Club for children and young people during term time on Saturday mornings, and Thursdays after school. You can also complete a Bronze or Silver Arts Award through the club. Find out more at www.ruralarts.org/saturday-art-club.

Adult Workshops

10.30am – 12 noon All sessions £4.50

Mini Christmas Wreaths

Monday 18th December Using natural foliage and wreath rings, weave your own wreath to hang on your door this winter.

Last Minute Christmas Cards

Tuesday 19th December Make some last minute cards to send

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with some experience of printmaking, to develop their own work in a mutually supportive environment. This will not be a taught course; therefore it is especially suited to those who have already taken part in a Rural Arts printmaking workshop. Call 01845 526536 for more information.

Digital Workshops Join our expert iPad tutor Claire Ford for friendly and informative Saturday sessions.

Workshops at Rural Arts give you the opportunity to learn or develop an artistic skill in a relaxed, creative environment, and are suitable for beginners.

Machine Embroidered Bags

(with Linda Breckon) Saturday 18th November (10am-4pm) £60 Within this workshop you will be using fabric to put together your own sugar base tote style bag. Materials will be available, but feel free to bring along fabrics and a sewing machine.

Fused Glass Christmas Decorations (with Jane Littlefield) Saturday 25th November (2-5pm) £45 Learn new skills and techniques using beautiful coloured glass. The decorations will need to be fused in the kiln, so will be returned to you in time for Christmas.

Christmas Holidays - Kids Workshops Get creative this winter, with our Christmas themed workshops!

These workshops can be enjoyed as a family. Under 8’s to be accompanied by a non-paying adult.

Join us for a fantastic selection of workshops, exhibitions and performances this Winter as we continue to celebrate our 25th anniversary year.

iPad One to Ones

Saturday 2nd December (1-4pm) £15 If you need help with certain areas of your iPad, sign up to these 30-minute sessions, which are tailored to your needs.

Events

(with Androulla Jefferies) Saturday 9th December (10am-1pm) £60 Using a combination of Merino wool, silks, ribbons and threads you will design, build and embellish your own A5 book cover. Please bring a towel, A5 notebook and plastic bag with you.

New: Printmaking Open Studio Scheme

Friday 24th November, 8th December (10am-2pm) £10 per session An open printmaking studio for those

Five Loose Chippings

Saturday 2nd December (7.30pm) £6 These newly formed, Thirsk based group of musicians play a whole range of music from Blues and Country through to a variety of popular songs. They have all played in other formats to sell-out audiences at Rural Arts for the last few years.

Art On Your Doorstep: Slanjayvah Danza ‘6 Feet, 3 Shoes’

Thursday 23rd November (2pm) £2.50 Spain meets Scotland meets Yorkshire...

6 Feet, 3 Shoes, is a multi-cultural dance, music and story-telling performance, rooted in traditional arts, set in a contemporary context.

A celebration of friendship and communication, 6 Feet, 3 shoes is full of feisty rhythmical dance, cultural references and humour.

The Courthouse features special event days throughout the year.

Free: Art Café for older people

Thursdays once a month (10.30am11.30am) 23rd November, 21st December, 18th January, 22nd February, 22nd March Come along on Thursdays once a month and enjoy an hour of free creative activity in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Carers welcome.

Refreshments available.

Christmas Makers Market Felted Book Covers

Courthouse performances, which showcase exciting new talent.

Saturday 25th November (10am-4pm) A showcase of contemporary art and craft produced by local makers and the perfect venue for some Christmas shopping!

Drop in: Knit and Natter

Every Monday from 10.30am Come along to the Courthouse Cafe, to have a knit and a natter! In this casual setting, you can bring your own materials to work and relax with your friends in the ‘snug’ area of our cafe.

Buy a hot drink and get a cake/scone half price!

Performances Come along to our intimate

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Edwina Hayes

Saturday 16th December (7.30pm) £12 Edwina returns to The Courthouse with her beautifully written songs, charming stage presence and voice of an angel have won her a reputation as a true natural talent of gentle folkAmericana. There will also be a spot by terrific singer Aubrey Esme to open the evening.

Pocket Panto: Cinderella

Saturday 23rd December (6pm) Adults: £8, U18s: £16 Join Pocket Panto in the most enchanting pantomine of them all, Cinderella. There will be thrills, spills and bloomers with frills in this traditional family panto. It certainly will be a Christmas treat...(oh yes, it will!) for village halls.

..........................

Many more events & workshops online

Blue Cross Thirsk

Keep your pets safe this Winter As the nights draw in and temperature drops make sure your pet still gets the exercise and mental stimulation they need.

Make sure you cat can easily get back inside and their catflap doesn’t freeze over. Cats will seek warmth and comfort anywhere if needed and are known to even get into car engines if they want a warm place to rest.

make sure nothing stuck between their pads like salt or grit. Keep their fur between pads trimmed to prevent ice-balls forming which can also be painful to them.

Just like us, pets can develop hypothermia if they are out in the cold for too long. Small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs are particularly vulnerable and you may want to bring them inside if possible, or make sure they have extra bedding to keep cosy.

For more information about the homeless pets looking for homes at Blue Cross in Thirsk visit www. bluecross.org.uk. The website also has lots of advice and more pet care tips.

After dog walks wash their paws to

Be very careful if it is icy outdoors and keep your dog on the lead if you may pass frozen water. Call for help but don’t go after your dog if they do run onto ice, it can be extremely dangerous.

Blue Cross wishes readers and their pets a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

Opening Hours Tuesday to Sunday: 10.00am–5.00pm Animal viewing times: 10.00am–4.00pm.

Mondays and bank holidays: closed Address Parklands, Station Road, Topcliffe, Thirsk, YO7 3SE Tel: 0300 777 1540 Fax: 0300 777 1541 Email: thirsk@bluecross.org.uk

How to Choose a Dog Groomer Recommendation is everything.

Ask friends and family for recommendations. The chances are if you have a dog-loving friend who is happy with her groomer, you will be too. The British Dog Groomer’s Association is part of the Pet Care Trade Association (a membership body for pet care specialist businesses). They have a list of groomers that they have accredited to a set standard, which aims to provide quality assurance to owners. There are written and practical tests that the groomer has to pass to gain this accreditation.

Groomers are not actually required to hold any qualifications, but the BDGA and RSPCA recommend that you only use those that do; the most recognised qualification route for dog groomers in the UK is the City and Guilds qualifications.

Ask to see any certificates.

Finding a groomer that belongs to a trade organisation provides

extra peace of mind. Groomers can join the British Dog Groomers Association (BDGA), through which they can keep up with trends on safety, health and other issues related to grooming through continued education, training and support.

Meet the groomer with your dog before employing them. You need to like and trust them and be confident that they will look after your pet. Ask questions. Do they use reward-based training methods to make the experience positive for the dog? Are the facilities clean and secure? Above all it should be a place where you feel comfortable leaving your pet.

A good groomer will ask for proof of vaccination before using their services, to stop the spread of contagious diseases between dogs. If it is a large establishment there should be sufficient staff to look after the needs of the animals

in their care. A single groomer running on an appointment-only basis should leave enough time for each grooming session. Be sure to discuss any special needs your pet has, such as sensitive skin, or a nervous disposition, and then ensure that you are happy that the groomer will cater for them. Many dogs don’t like having their paws touched. Ask the groomer how they would handle this.

Check all references and ask to see

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a copy of their police check or CRB certificate, to check that they do not have a criminal background.

Ask to see evidence they have insurance to cover your pet in case of an emergency.

Finally be realistic about price. A bargain price may not be such a bargain if the job is shoddy or worse, leads to an expensive visit to the vet.

By Louise Addison

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GARDEN VIEW

National

Tree Week

25th November-3rd Dec is National Tree Week

November 25th marks the start of National Tree Week, which in turn marks the start of treeplanting season.

Considering that most of us in the UK have fairly small plots we do love our trees. The trouble is we’re not always terribly good at choosing them. How many times have you driven through a housing estate and observed an enormous weeping willow or an enormous pine tree completely obscuring a front garden.

It can be tricky deciding what sort of tree to plant on a small, suburban plot but there are plenty of candidates. Generally trees up to 8-10m are considered suitable.

The best urban trees offer year-round interest.

Varieties of Acer Palmatum are rather lovely. They are elegant trees which have attractive green or purple foliage and col-

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our beautifully in the winter.

For my money Amalanchier Lamarckii is about as hardworking a tree as you’ll come across. During March and April it produces a frothy show of white flowers, then in June these are replaced by attractive deep purple, and supposedly edible - though I’ve never tried them - fruits. Then, when Autumn arrives the tree pulls out all the stops and bursts into fiery colour. If you only have room for one tree then an Amelanchier won’t let you down.

Another hard worker is Sorbus hupehensis var. obtusa. This tree has a pretty shape and is attractive throughout the year.

In the late spring it is covered in white blossom which is followed by masses of dark pink berries. The blue-green leaves turn red in the autumn.

It’s just my opinion of course but without at least one tree, a garden can seem flat and a little dull. Trees provide structure

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and height but are also a haven for birds and insects, which in turn add colour and life. Why not plant a tree during this week. Our guide has some helpful tips.

How to Plant a Tree • Dig a hole at least twice the size of the root ball.

• Make up a mixture of half compost and half soil from the hole. Put a few inches of this mix at the bottom of the hole.

• Trees need support so drive a support stake into the hole at one edge. This needs to be done before the tree is planted or you risk damaging the roots.

• Tip the tree from its container and loosen the roots a little.

Place it into the hole and fill in with the soil and compost mixture. Firm it down with your heel.

• Use proper straps to secure the tree to the post.

• Water well!

By Rachael Leverton

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Winter Travel Tips Winter needn’t be hell on the roads – our survival guide will help you get through the time of year when you’re most likely to break down.

While it’s typically the season of delays, arming yourself with the right kit will make a big difference if you do get stuck.

If a lorry jack-knifes ahead of you, chances are you’ll be stuck for a long time, even if you have winter tyres or snow chains.

So, make up a winter emergency kit to keep in the boot – chances are you won’t need it but you’ll be glad it’s there if you do.

Year-round essentials • A fully charged mobile phone (with the AA app installed).

• An in-car phone charger or power pack.

• Sunglasses • Personal medication • First aid kit • A road atlas – in case of diversions.

• Sat-nav or a printed route for an unfamiliar journey.

• Your AA membership card • Winter emergency kit

Severe weather extras • When bad weather’s forecast and you have to travel, pack these essentials, too: • A warm winter coat, scarf, hat, gloves and warm clothes • Waterproofs • Sturdy footwear • A flask of hot drink

Keep in your car throughout the winter: • A blanket, rug or sleeping bag.

• Shovel.

• Ice scraper and de-icer • Torch and batteries • Snacks – chocolate or cereal bars • Extra screenwash

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A Good Read The Girl with the Lost Smile n Miranda Hart

The first children’s book from award-winning, bestselling author and comedian Miranda Hart, a story guaranteed to make you laugh and cry!

With fabulous illustrations by Sainsbury’s Book of the Year winner, Kate Hindley.

Chloe Long has lost her smile. She’s looked everywhere for it. (Under her pillow. Under her bed. Under her nose. Obviously.)

She’s tried everything to bring it back. (Her favourite cake. Her favourite gran. Her favourite joke. Obviously.) But nothing seems to be working!

Until one night, something utterly magical happens - and Chloe finds herself on an adventure that is out of this world ...

The Girl With The Lost Smile takes you on an action-packed, magical journey that celebrates the power of the imagination, the wonder of true friendship and is guaranteed to make you smile.

About the Author Miranda Hart made her mark appearing in shows including Smack the Pony, Absolutely Fabulous and Not Going Out. But when her sitcom Miranda burst on to our screens in 2009, her popularity rocketed.

Miranda has since been crowned the Queen of Comedy at the British Comedy Awards and won Best new TV comedy, as well as winning best actress in 2010 and 2011. She has also won three RTS comedy awards and has been nominated for four BAFTAs. Her book Is It Just Me? was the number one best-selling memoir of 2012 and to date it has sold over 580,000 copies. Her stand up show My, What I Call, Live Show - was a sell-out in 2013.

The Complete Tales and Poems of Winnie-the-Pooh n AA Milne

The recently released film ‘Goodbye Christopher Robin’ painted a less-than-rosy picture of the dysfunctional upper class Milne family.

Yet the stories are still compellingly charming from the opening lines, ‘Here is Edward Bear, coming downstairs now, bump, bump, bump, on the back of his head, behind Christopher Robin.’

Milne may have been a traumatised war veteran but his storytelling has so much warmth and depth. At times the tales are laugh out loud funny – Rabbit in particular makes me giggle every time he replies to a knock at the door – and children will quickly read along with you, even if some of the sentence structure and vocabulary is complex.

Every child deserves to have this book read aloud to them at least once before they are six and I bet you anything you will be asked for it again, and again. The word classic is sometimes used lightly: here, it is truly deserved.

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Northallerton

Low North Cowton Entercommon

14,900

Danby Wiske

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homes & businesses

Ripon & Masham

14,900

Leeming Bar

South Kilvington Carlton Miniott

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01609 777401 07742 595747 christine@jkanorth.com 01609 779097 dwight@jkanorth.com www.jkanorth.com

Index Antiques Cathedral Court Medals: p15 Architects RBC Architect: p3 Hansom Architects: p4 Builders & Contractors Abbey Garage Doors: p1 Bedale Skip Hire: p24 NYG Home Improvements: p15 Resin Drives: p32 Solids Roofs 4 U: p31 Business Services Printing.com: p30 The Specialists: p20 Carpet Fitting Terry The Carpet Fitter: p5 Cleaning Services Daily Poppins: p5 Turbo Dry: p3 Zero Dry Time: p6 Computers DMW Computer Solutions: p4 Dental Ashby & Atkinson: p12 Design & Print Hansom Architects: p4 Printing.com: p30 RBC Architect: p3 The Specialists: p20 Elderly Care The Millings: p12 Eve Home Care: p9

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Kilburn

Thirkleby

Crakehill

Humberton

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Wass Coxwold

Skewsby

Easingwold

Farlington

Aldwark Copgrove

Tollerton

Clint

Huby Sutton-onthe-Forest

Ripley Nidd

Knaresborough Harrogate

Elderly Assistance MD Mobility: p13 One Care Mobility: p15 Electrical Services Electrocare: p30 Handy Andy: p30 Events Husthwaite Village Market: p17 Fashion & Clothing La Bella Boutique: p3 Finance & Legal Northallerton Insurance Services: p1 Florists Hutton Flowers: p17 Food & Drink Buck Inn: p16 Red Chilli: p10 Romanby Golf Club: p19 Framing Spectrum Framing & Gallery: p4 Furniture Foxtail Handmade Furniture: p5 Garage Doors Abbey Garage Doors: p1 Garages Auto Test Garage: p27 Garden & Outdoor Services Anchorage Hire Centre: p3 Artisan Tree Management: p25

Bedale Skip Hire: p24 Burneston Tree Services: p24 Resin Drives: p32 Westwood Timber: p25 Gifts Cathedral Court Medals: p15 La Bella Boutique: p3 Spectrum Framing & Gallery: p4 Whitegates Nursery: p1 Hair & Beauty Barbers Chair: p21 Beauty Spot: 13 Little Beauty Rooms: p21 Healthcare & Wellbeing Ashby & Atkinson: p12 Hambleton Remedial Massage: p12 Hire Services Anchorage Hire Centre: p3 Bedale Skip Hire: p24 Home & Interiors Court Homemakers: p2 Dales of Thirsk: p15 D & H Interior Design: p6 Direct Tile Importers: p32 Foxtail Handmade Furniture: p5 Northallerton Tiles & Bathrooms: p28 Ripon Interiors: p11 Rooms By Design: p7 Spectrum Framing & Gallery: p4 Horticulture Whitegates Nursery: p1

£105!

Marton Abbey

Brearton Hardwith

from only

Yearsley

Thormanby

Boroughbridge

Bishop Monkton Markington

Dwight

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Scawton

Sutton-underWhitestonecliffe

Raskelf

Grantley Sawley

Ripon & Masham

Felixkirk

Sowerby

Ripon

Greygarth

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Dalton

North Stainley Dishforth

Christine

Thirsk

Baldersby West Tanfield

When’s the next issue?

Boltby

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homes & businesses

thousands

Knayton

Maunby Rookwith

Nether Silton

Borrowby

There are

of reasons to advertise with us...

Over Silton

Landmoth

Newby Wiske

Bedale

£180!

Thimbleby

Northallerton Romanby

from only

Osmotherley

Brompton Great Fencote

Swainby

East Harlsey

Streetlam

1/2 Page

West Rounton

York

Thirsk & Easingwold

16,400 homes & businesses

Northallerton

Copy: 9th February 2018 Dist: w/c 5th March 2018

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Thirsk & Easingwold

Copy: 16th February 2018 Dist: w/c 12th March 2018

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£65!

Village Inn: p9 Tree Surgery Kitchens Artisan Tree Court Homemakers: p2 Windows & Doors Management: p25 Foxtail Handmade Cloudy 2 Clear: p29 Burneston Tree Services: Furniture: p5 National Window p24 Rooms By Design: p7 Systems: p29 NYG Home Weddings Logs & Fuel Improvements: p15 Hutton Flowers: p17 Burneston Tree Services: p24 Romanby Golf Club: p19 Painters & Decorators Answers H. McLean & Son: p5 Q1: a) France. b) Italy. c) Spain. d) Wales. e) Greece. f) Poland. g) Germany. h) Portugal Trevor Pickering: p30 i) Holland j) Vatican (Latin) Pets & Animals Q2: a) Winston Churchill b) Abraham Lincoln Hambleton Cat Care: p1 c) Lloyd George d) The Bible (Acts ch10 v34) e) Robert Burns f) Shakespeare (sonnet 18) Property g) Picasso (I was an artist and became Picasso) Maintenance Abbey Garage Doors: p1 h) Albert Einstein i) Anonymous j) Charles Dickens (A Tale of Two Cities) Cloudy 2 Clear: p29 Q3: 26th December Q4: Jacob Marley Q5: Ladies Handy Andy: p30 Dancing Q6: White Q7: Robbie Burns Q8) Six NYG Home Q9: Germany Q10: 1914 Q11: Pacific and Indian Improvements: p15 Q12: Christmas Island (Indian Ocean) Q13: Isaac Resin Drives: p32 Newton Q14: Arctic Q15: H2O Q16: Beagle 2 Solids Roofs 4 U: p31 Q17: Oliver Cromwell Q18: George V (1932) Q19: 1957 Q20) Happy Xmas (War is Over) Road Safety 95 Alive: p26 Solar Power Peak Power Systems: p25 Sports & Leisure Cowley Cycles: p20 Evolve NCA: p8 Northallerton Squash Club: p17 Romanby Golf Club: p19 Stonemasons Dales Memorials: p15

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Have you got a Greenhouse tacked to the side of your house?

A Conservatory is not a habitable room, being too cold in winter and too hot in summer.

Research at Cranfield University has shown that the average south-facing conservatory reaches a comfortable temperature for only two hours a day, unless energy is expended on artificial heating or cooling. The glass or polycarbonate roof and walls have a minimal insulation value, and a conservatory is little more than a greenhouse tacked onto the side of a house.

Unfortunately, instead of paying just a few hundred pounds for a lean-to greenhouse, many people have been persuaded by glossy advertising to pay £20,000 or £30,000 or more, for a conservatory. The conservatory industry has relied on huge profits on a few slick sales points-that a conservatory is a cheaper way of providing space than a proper extension; that it will be erected with little disruption in a week or so; and that conservatories do not require Planning Permission or Building Regulation approval. They do! * The planning permission* argument has always been suspect. Like any addition, a conservatory fell under “permitted development” rights only so long as it was not too big- no more than 10 per cent of the existing building (or 50 cubic metres) for a terraced house, or 15 per cent (or 70 cubic metres ) for any other house.

The Building Regulations situation is more complex. There are in fact several aspects of the Building Regulations that conservatories have always had to comply with-such as those governing structural stability and fire safety.

But the one that was stressed by the salesman was Part L – the conservation of fuel and power.

A conservatory was exempt from Part L as long as it was separated from the house by a closing door, and had a roof area of at least 75 per cent glazed and a wall area at least 50 per cent glazed.

It was this fact that was promoted as a “loophole” by the salesman, and a result in thousands of shoddy boxes being sold, with no oversight from local authority Building Control officers.

For what it’s worth, the percentage glazed area requirement was dropped for the 2010 edition Part L, so there is no longer any difference between a

Before

conservatory and a more solidly built extension. But people continue to be sold the false dream of a habitable “room in the garden”.

The firms that fit insulation and plasterboard beneath conservatory roofs are clearly hoping to cash-in on householders’ disappointment, but I would urge caution. The figures claimed for the expected improvements in thermal performance sound highly theoretical, and I am not aware of any independent evidence to support these claims in practice.

Furthermore, fitting insulation and plasterboard inside an existing glass or polycarbonate roof entails some risks.

Condensation forming on the underside of the glazing on winter nights might drip onto the insulation and damage the plasterboard ceiling. The Companies claim that crossventilation will prevent this happening but- as we have seen with loft insulation in normal house roofs - some degree of condensation is inevitable.

The main reservation, however, concerns over the long term water tightness of the existing conservatory roof. Polycarbonate roofs have a life expectancy of 10 years or less, and even the most expensive glass roofs can suffer rubber gasket deterioration within a similar time frame. Then what happens when the roof leaks onto the new plasterboard ceiling below?

This system should be treated with suspicion.

Estate Agents and valuer’s may list your conservatory on their particulars, showing its attributes, but you will find that no added value has been put onto the property because of it!

Advice - if you want your extension to be truly habitable, with a tangible value, then put your money towards removing the glazing altogether and fit a proper roof.

Fitting a real roof can have a true use and value added to your home.

Solid Roofs 4U Ltd can Engineer, Produce and Build in a choice of Styles and Roof Coverings including Real Tiles.

Call 01904 200 212 or Visit solidroofs4u.com

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